AMP Capital set to buy stake in London Luton Airport from Ardian

Ardian, a 49% shareholder in LLA, has agreed to sell its stake in the airport to AMP Capital, the Australian specialist global investment manager. This change does not affect Aena´s 51% majority shareholding and controlling stake in LLA.

Ardian acquired 49% of LLA in 2013. Since then, Ardian, together with leading airport operator, Aena, have invested over £160 million in developing the airport. As a result, LLA has been transformed and passenger numbers have increased from 9.7 million in 2013 to 15.8 million in 2017, making LLA one of the UK’s fastest growing airports, hosting 11 airlines and flying to more than 140 destinations.

The transformation of LLA is nearing completion. It has involved a redesign of the terminal and major upgrades to transport links to make travelling to and through quicker and easier. The investment has also seen LLA introduce new and exciting shops and restaurants, such as Chanel, Hugo Boss and Ted Baker, to improve the passenger experience.

Nick Barton, CEO of LLA, said: “Since their investment in 2013 the Aena and Ardian partnership has been instrumental in helping us to transform and grow the airport. We look forward to building on this success with AMP Capital as we continue to develop LLA into a world class airport.”

Andrew Liau, Managing Director of Ardian, added: “This success has been made possible by the hard work of everyone involved with LLA, including the employees, our industrial partner Aena, and an extended list of important stakeholders. AMP Capital will be an excellent partner for them and LLA as the airport continues its growth ambitions.”

José Manuel Fernández Bosch, Director General for Non-Regulated Business of Aena: “As London Luton Airport’s main shareholder we remain fully committed to the airport’s growth and development in cooperation with stakeholders and employees.”